The Director of Communications & Politics at Netroots Nation visited us to discuss her path from a Conservative family to the Progressive she is today. Followingly, she discussed the Netroots Nation organization, its Progressive values, and what it means to the nation.
Netroots Comm Dir, Mary Rickles, speaks.
Mary visited Politics Done Right to discuss both Netroots Nation 2023 in Chicago as well as her path toward Progressive change. Her story was inspiring because, for those who are constantly maligned for spending effort on diffusing polarization, her example is proof that it is a worthwhile endeavor.
Mary Rickles grew up in a very Conservative household. But both here and her brother were critical thinkers. Even as her parents pushed their Conservative ideals, Mary continued her path to self-enlightenment. Most importantly, Mary did not become a Progressive whose goal was to hammer her Conservative family into submission. She exercised the epitome of what it means to be a Progressive—allowing the free thoughts of all and the ability to agree to disagree without being disagreeable. I discuss many of these issues in my book titled “It’s Worth It: How To Talk To Your Right-Wing Relatives, Friends, and Neighbors,” where interestingly, she expressed some of the same sentiments and approach.
Followingly, Mary discussed the Netroots Nation 2023 Conference, the largest meeting of Progressive activists, politicians, bloggers, writers, and NGOs in the country. She pointed out that it is where ideas flourish, politicians are made and grow, and much more.
Netroots Nation is a non-profit organization that provides trainings, resources and connection opportunities to help progressive activists create a more progressive and just world. Since 2006, Netroots Nation has hosted the largest annual conference for progressives, drawing up to 4,000 attendees from around the country and beyond. Our annual event brings together diverse voices from around the country and beyond.
Anyone who desires a more progressive and just world is welcome. Our attendees are politicians, online organizers, grassroots activists, and independent media makers. Some are professionals who work at advocacy organizations, progressive companies or labor unions; while others do activism in their spare time.
Listen to the entire interview. It is well worth it. Politics Done Right will be on Radio Row at Netroots Nation 2023. Stop by for a short interview if you have a message you want to get out there over our networks.